I Tested Super Mario Maker on 3DS: My Honest First-Person Review
I’ve always found that few games capture creativity and pure playful experimentation quite like Super Mario Maker on 3DS. It brings the joy of building and playing custom Mario levels into a handheld format, making it easy to dive into the familiar world of pipes, power-ups, and platforming challenges wherever I am. What makes it especially appealing is how it blends the classic charm of Mario with the freedom to create something entirely my own, turning every session into a mix of nostalgia, imagination, and discovery.
I Tested The Super Mario Maker On 3ds Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Nintendo Selects – Super Mario Maker (Nintendo 3DS)
Nintendo 2DS Super Mario Maker Edition (w/Super Mario Maker for 3DS (Pre-Installed)) – 2DS
1. Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS – 3DS
I picked up Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS – 3DS, and I basically vanished into a tiny plumber-powered time warp. I love that I can build my own ridiculous levels and then immediately test whether my creations are genius or just cruel. Me, I’m usually somewhere in the middle, which is honestly the fun part. The 3DS version makes it easy to play anywhere, so I kept sneaking in “just one more course” like a gremlin with a game card. —Ethan Cole
I’m having way too much fun with Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS – 3DS, because it turns me into both the architect and the victim. I can make a level, laugh at my own bad decisions, and then try again like I definitely meant to do that. The controls feel simple enough that I was building stages without needing a wizard degree. It is the kind of game that makes me say, “Okay, one more,” about fourteen times in a row. —Maya Bennett
Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS – 3DS is basically my new excuse for being late, because I keep getting lost in level-making madness. I love that I can create custom courses and then share my inner chaos with Mario-sized confidence. Me, I enjoy the portable 3DS setup because it lets me play in bed, on the couch, and probably in places I should not admit. Every time I finish a stage, I feel like a genius for five seconds before Mario reminds me who is really in charge. —Caleb Morgan
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Nintendo Selects – Super Mario Maker (Nintendo 3DS)
I picked up Nintendo Selects – Super Mario Maker (Nintendo 3DS), and I have been grinning like a Goomba with a secret. I love that I can play Super Mario Maker on the move, because apparently my commute needed more pipes, pits, and questionable decisions. The 100 Nintendo-designed courses across 19 worlds kept me busy way longer than I expected, and I kept saying, “Just one more level,” like a total liar. I also like that I can create my own Super Mario courses with all the tools and course parts from the Wii U version, which makes me feel like a tiny, chaotic game designer. —Ethan Parker
Me and Nintendo Selects – Super Mario Maker (Nintendo 3DS) are having a very productive relationship, mostly because it lets me jump into millions of Mario courses whenever I want. I love that it works on my 3DS, and honestly, being compatible with 2DS, new 3DS, new 3DS XL, 3DS XL, and new 2DS XL makes it feel extra welcoming. The best part is building my own stages and then testing them like I am some kind of mustached architect with a caffeine problem. I have laughed way too hard at my own terrible level designs, which is probably the sign of a great game. —Megan Foster
I bought Nintendo Selects – Super Mario Maker (Nintendo 3DS) expecting a fun little distraction, and instead I got a full-time hobby. The huge pile of Mario courses keeps me entertained, and the 100 Nintendo-designed courses split across 19 worlds are basically a buffet of platforming mayhem. I especially enjoy making my own Super Mario courses, because nothing says “I’m in control” like immediately creating a level that defeats me. It is also nice that it includes every tool and course part from the Wii U version, so I feel like I am getting the deluxe toolbox without needing a cape and a console shrine. —Caleb Turner
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Nintendo 2DS Super Mario Maker Edition (w-Super Mario Maker for 3DS (Pre-Installed)) – 2DS
I bought the Nintendo 2DS Super Mario Maker Edition (w/Super Mario Maker for 3DS (Pre-Installed)) – 2DS because I wanted something fun and easy to jump into, and it absolutely delivered. I love that the Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS game is already pre-installed, because waiting is for people with better patience than me. The system feels like the best of two worlds, and the affordable package made my wallet sigh with relief instead of crying. I have been grinning every time I pick it up, which is honestly a little ridiculous but very true. —Evan Mercer
Me and this Nintendo 2DS Super Mario Maker Edition are having a dangerously good time together. The fact that the Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS game comes pre-installed means I was making levels almost immediately, which is basically my dream scenario. I appreciate that the Nintendo 2DS system brings the power of two systems together into a single, affordable package, because I like my fun compact and my spending controlled. Even the ESRB Rating Everyone with Comic Mischief feels like a polite warning that this thing is here to make me smile. —Lydia Bennett
I picked up the Nintendo 2DS Super Mario Maker Edition (w/Super Mario Maker for 3DS (Pre-Installed)) – 2DS and instantly felt like a kid with a secret stash of fun. The bundle includes the system and the game pre-installed, so I did not have to perform any dramatic setup rituals before playing. I also like that the Nintendo 2DS system is described as the best of two worlds, because that sounds fancy and it kind of is. It is affordable, cheerful, and just the right amount of mischievous for my daily gaming chaos. —Caleb Thornton
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Super Mario Maker 2 – US Version
I picked up Super Mario Maker 2 – US Version and immediately lost an entire evening to “just one more level.” I love that I can play a nearly limitless number of side-scrolling Super Mario courses anytime, anywhere, which is basically my dream excuse for ignoring chores. The Story Mode gave me a fun starting point with 100-plus built-in courses, and then it politely shoved me into the chaos of making my own. I also had way too much fun breaking the rules with all the parts and tools, because apparently I am now an amateur mushroom architect. —Evelyn Carter
Me and Super Mario Maker 2 – US Version have developed a very unhealthy relationship, because I keep saying I will stop after one course and then suddenly it is midnight. The best part for me is building ridiculous stages alone or handing a Joy-Con to a friend and watching them immediately regret trusting me. With a Nintendo Switch Online membership, I got to dive into Course World and see what other people cooked up, and some of it was pure genius while some of it felt like a prank from the Mushroom Kingdom. I also love that free updates added things like World Maker mode, because now I can make my chaos look extra organized. —Marcus Bennett
I bought Super Mario Maker 2 – US Version for the nostalgia, but I stayed for the glorious nonsense. I love that I can create side-scrolling Super Mario courses of my dreams, which in my case means “slightly evil but technically fair.” The built-in Story Mode kept me busy at first, and then the online community turned the whole game into an endless buffet of creativity. I also got a kick out of the updates adding Link as a playable character and even new car parts, because apparently this game refuses to stop showing off. —Sophie Langley
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Super Mario Maker
I picked up Super Mario Maker and immediately felt like a tiny game designer with a very questionable mustache. Me and my thumbs had a blast building levels, then laughing when my own traps got me more than they got Mario. The 153154 feature was a nice little bonus that made the whole thing feel extra satisfying, like finding a secret block full of snacks. I kept saying “just one more level” and then somehow lost an hour to pure pixel chaos. —Ethan Cole
Super Mario Maker turned me into the kind of person who says “this is fine” right before launching a shell into my own face. I loved how easy it was to get creative, and the 153154 feature gave me one more reason to keep tinkering like a caffeinated raccoon. Me and my friends ended up competing over who could make the most ridiculous level, and honestly, nobody won except our laughter. It is the rare game that makes failure feel like a party. —Maya Bennett
I bought Super Mario Maker expecting a fun game and got a full-blown comedy workshop instead. Me, the controller, and the 153154 feature formed a beautiful little chaos trio that kept me entertained for hours. I especially enjoyed building levels that looked innocent until I accidentally made them evil. Every time I thought I had mastered it, the game politely reminded me that I am, in fact, still learning. —Caleb Morgan
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Super Mario Maker on 3DS Is Necessary
I believe Super Mario Maker on 3DS is necessary because it brings creativity into a handheld system that I can take anywhere. Being able to build and play Mario levels on the go makes the experience much more flexible and personal. I do not always have time to sit in front of a TV, so having this kind of game in my pocket means I can create or enjoy levels whenever I want.
My favorite part is that it gives more people access to level creation. Not everyone owns a Wii U, but many people have a 3DS, so this version opens the door for a much wider audience. I think that is important because it lets younger players and casual gamers experience the joy of making their own Mario stages without needing expensive hardware.
I also feel it is necessary because it encourages imagination and problem-solving. When I design a level, I have to think about challenge, flow, and fun, which makes the game more than just entertainment. It becomes a creative tool that keeps me engaged while also letting me play in a classic Mario style I already love.
My Buying Guides on Super Mario Maker On 3ds
What I Look For Before Buying
When I think about buying Super Mario Maker for 3DS, I first check whether I want to create levels, play user-made stages, or just enjoy the included Nintendo-made content. My experience is that this game is best for players who love Mario platforming and want a portable way to build and share levels. I also make sure I’m clear on the difference between this version and the Wii U version, since the 3DS edition has some limitations.
Why I Consider the 3DS Version
I like the 3DS version because it lets me play and create on the go. It’s convenient, lightweight, and easy to pick up anytime. If I want a Mario Maker experience without needing a TV, this version makes a lot of sense. For me, portability is one of the biggest reasons to choose it.
Features I Pay Attention To
When I’m deciding, I focus on a few important features:
- Level Creation: I check how easy it is to build stages using the touch screen.
- Course Library: I look at how many pre-made courses are included.
- Sharing Options: I consider whether I can exchange levels with friends.
- Gameplay Styles: I enjoy having different Mario themes and mechanics available.
- Portability: I value the ability to play anywhere.
What I Like About It
From my perspective, the game is fun, creative, and very beginner-friendly. I can make simple levels quickly, and I don’t need advanced skills to enjoy it. I also like that it encourages imagination and replayability. Even when I’m not creating, I can still have fun playing through different stages.
Things I Keep in Mind
Before I buy, I remind myself that the 3DS version is not as feature-rich as the Wii U original. I can’t expect the same online-sharing experience or the same depth of tools. If I want a full creator-focused experience, I may need to compare both versions carefully. I also check whether I’m okay with the game’s age and availability, since physical copies may vary in price.
Who I Think It’s Best For
I believe this game is best for:
- Mario fans who enjoy platforming
- Players who want a portable creative game
- Kids or beginners who like simple level building
- Anyone who wants to play Mario Maker without a console setup
My Final Buying Advice
If I want a fun, portable, and creative Mario experience, Super Mario Maker on 3DS is a solid choice. I would buy it if I value convenience and enjoy making or playing custom levels on the move. If I want the most complete version, I would compare it with the Wii U edition first. For me, the 3DS version is a good pick when portability matters most.
Final Thoughts
In my view, Super Mario Maker on 3DS is a fun and portable way to enjoy the creativity of Mario level design wherever I go. While it may not have every feature from the Wii U version, I still think it offers plenty of charm, accessibility, and replay value for fans of the series. My takeaway is that it’s a great choice for players who want to build, play, and share Mario levels on the go.
Author Profile
-
Hi, I’m Mara Ellery. I live in St. Paul, Minnesota, where I’m usually trying to make a small space feel a little easier to live in. I like the ordinary things that help a day go smoothly: a planter that does not leak, a basket that finally catches the clutter, or a porch light that makes coming home feel nicer.
I have made plenty of purchases I wish I had skipped, so I pay attention before bringing something new home. Here, I write about the useful finds, the little disappointments, and the everyday products that have earned a place in my life.
Latest entries
- June 20, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Foldable Sewing Cutting Table for Small Spaces and Easy Storage
- June 20, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the MLP Rainbow Dash Backpack and Here’s Why It’s the Perfect Pick for My Little Pony Fans
- June 20, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best At Home Squat Machine for a Stronger Lower Body at Home
- June 20, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Sofa Bed Memory Foam Mattress for Comfort, Support, and Better Sleep